When I had my fire a couple of years ago, three volunteer fire companies responded, maybe 15 responders total, at 3am in the snow, and they were good at what they did. I couldn't have asked for better. Neighboring Troy, with a professional department, has trouble with staffing because of budget cuts. Throwing money at the problem isn't a solution, in part because there's no money to throw at the problem.

I also work as part of a volunteer amateur radio group. We face the same issues with attracting and keeping volunteers. It's tough, and it's frustrating. I've been reading along looking for ideas.